A state of the art review of the epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Europe and an overview of the way preventive measures are currently implemented in European countries set the scene (EMCDDA)

Report presented to the crime prevention mini ter recommends a revised generic description, designed to control a broad-range of ‘third generation’ synthetic cannabinoids (Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs)

The purposes of this clinical report are to review some of the short-term effects of maternal substance use during pregnancy and long-term implications of fetal exposure; describe typical medical, psychiatric, and behavioral symptoms of children and adolescents in families affected by substance use; and suggest proficiencies for pediatricians involved in the care of children and adolescents of families affected by substance use, including screening families, mandated reporting requirements, and directing families to community, regional, and state resources that can address needs and problems (Pediatrics)

Buprenorphine (often prescribed with naloxone, as “suboxone”) is an evidence-based medication for people with opioid use disorder. Clinical wisdom suggests staying on the medication consistently is important to patient outcomes. But does consistent adherence really make a difference? (Recovery Research Review)

The overall aim of the research was to provide data on the current extent and nature of stigma amongst the Scottish general public towards people with drug dependence and people who have recovered from drug dependence (Scottish Government)

Globally, new HIV infections among adults and children were reduced by 40% since the peak in 1997. However, new analysis from UNAIDS shows that new HIV infections among adults have stalled, failing to decline for at least five years. The report outlines what is needed to step up prevention efforts (UNAIDS)

This report presents the key activities performed by the EMCDDA and Europol in 2015 and the results of the implementation of Council Decision 2005/387/JHA on the information exchange, risk assessment and control of new psychoactive substances, including new psychoactive substances notified in 2015, Joint Reports produced, risk assessments conducted and public health-related alerts and advisories issued to the EU Early Warning System Network (EMCDDA)